Going Green With Your Upstate South Carolina Bathroom Remodel
Many homeowners today consider going green with an Upstate South Carolina bathroom remodel. A green bathroom remodel is suitable for the environment because it will save you money on utility bills for years. It also might qualify for some rebates and tax credits. The main opportunities to make your Upstate South Carolina bathroom remodeling project environmentally friendly are water conservation and energy use for heating/cooling and lighting.
Here are some tips for green Upstate South Carolina bathroom remodeling:
1. Choose non-toxic building materials. These materials are better for your family and good for the environment.
2. Choose non-toxic insulation derived from materials like soybean or cotton. These are safer to handle and install, safer for your family, and good for the environment.
3. Choose tropical hardwoods certified by the Forest Stewardship Council. These are rapidly renewable and protect the environment.
4. Wood-based features should come from rapidly renewable sources like cork and bamboo.
5. Choose VOC free (volatile organic compound) paints and sealants. These materials are safer to install, safer for your family (especially if children are home), and better for the environment.
6. Purchase and install low-flow faucets and shower heads to reduce the amount of water used. Install an aerator in all faucets. This is a very significant water conservation step.
7. Choose and install low-flow or dual-flush toilets. These toilets can function with as little as half the water older toilets use. Dual-flush toilets offer a lighter flush or a more thorough flush as needed.
8. Choose energy efficient light fixtures and use compact fluorescent bulbs in all light fixtures. You will not need to replace light bulbs as often and will use only a fraction of the energy for your lighting needs.
9. Use a window and skylight to provide natural light and natural ventilation. This will make your remodeled bathroom lighter and brighter and save energy.
10. If the bathroom is some distance from the water heater, consider installing a tankless water heater. If installing a whirlpool or soaker tub, install an in-line water heater. This allows you to reheat the water in the tub, saving both power and water.
If you want to make your Upstate South Carolina bathroom remodeling project environmentally friendly and energy-efficient, these ten tips will accomplish a great deal. Your new bathroom will be safer, more comfortable, and environmentally responsible. Remember also to have any plumbing installation performed by a professional Upstate South Carolina plumber to ensure accuracy and efficient water flow. This is also a green move since incorrect installation could cause much damage and water waste.